How common is peer pressure?

Introduction. Many believe peer pressure is simply something some teenagers experience. However, peer pressure is common in all age groups, educational, and economic sectors of society. Peer pressure is allowing ones peers or equals to influence, often to the point of control. Studies with alarming results have been done that reveal cases of peer or authority type situations influencing against the moral conviction of the one so controlled, even to the degree of physically harming another.

A biblical example of peer pressure. Barnabas was an outstanding Christian and preacher (Acts 4: 34-37, 13: 1-4). Paul mentioned a case regarding which Peter sinned and Paul had to publicly rebuke him (Gal. 2: 11, 12). Peter's sinful conduct influenced others. "And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him," we read, "insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation" (Gal. 2: 13).

Prohibition against peer pressure. Under the Law of Moses, the following prohibition was issued: "Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil..." (Ex. 23: 2). Great harm is done and many opportunities for good go wasted because of the inordinate desire to please others and secure their acceptance. Paul wrote, "Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners" (1 Cor. 15: 33). We are told that "among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue" (John 12: 42). These rulers "loved the praise of men more than the praise of God" (vs. 42).

Conclusion. Paul wrote, "For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ" (Gal. 1: 10). We must be able to say, "no" when necessary (cp. Heb. 11: 24, 25).

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